Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would first like to congratulate the new Premier-elect, Mr. Jim Antoine, and the new Cabinet Member, the Honourable Mr. Roland. I know they will work hard and provide guidance and vision for the future.

Mr. Speaker, as you are aware, three years ago we first came to this Assembly. Some of us were long-time Members and others like myself have been here previously , while others were new. We knew we had many tough issues to deal with. First and foremost we had the deficit to deal with, this affected us all, as well as our constituents. However, with the guidance of our previous Premier and his Finance Minister, we succeeded. We have also had many issues regarding division to deal with and again we have succeeded.

If it was not for the hard work of Mr. Morin and his colleagues, I am sure we could not have accomplished what we have in as little time we had. We should be proud of our work.

When we came to this house for the first time, most of us did not know each other. We have built friendships and good working relationships that will last for a long time. As the eastern Members get ready for their election and move out of this Assembly, I can say they will be missed. It has always been enjoyable to hear Mr. Picco give his rendition of the latest song he heard on the radio or to listen to Mr. O'Brien provide us with the latest joke of the day. Of course, I cannot forget my travelling companion and good friend, Mr. Ningark. As I call him brother John and I travelled to various areas of our country and it was always enjoyable to have his company.

This has been a very interesting and exhausting term, we have had our high points as well as our low points but we have survived and now can say that we have made history on many fronts and for the most part it gives me great pleasure. Over the last week we have dealt with many issues, some very troubling, but again we have pushed forward and provided the best results that we could have.

In closing, I would like to thank the Members from the east for their assistance and companionship over the last three years and hope for the best on their upcoming election and challenges ahead to realize their own territory. I would also like to wish my constituents in the North Slave along with all the residents of the country, a safe and happy holiday season. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause